Marrakech: Over 40 athletes and cycling enthusiasts from Qatar and Morocco gathered in Marrakech on Saturday to kick off the 2nd edition of the ‘CultuRide’ cycling tour, organized as part of the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture 2024. This anticipated event, launched in the presence of H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Moroccan Olympic champion Nawal El Moutwakel, and a representative of the Royal Moroccan Cycling Federation, celebrates the Morocco-Qatar friendship through an inspiring journey to discover the Kingdom’s scenic and diverse landscapes.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the event is led by entrepreneur and renowned Qatari athlete Ali bin Towar Al Kuwari. ‘CultuRide’ embodies the mission of the ‘Years of Culture’ initiative to deepen international ties through shared experiences. From November 16-22, cyclists will traverse over 600 kilometers, crossing some of the Kingdom’s emblematic sites and hidden treasures, while interacting with local communities.
Ali bin T
owar Al Kuwari, the event’s official ambassador, emphasized that ‘CultuRide’ offers an opportunity to explore the potential and rich heritage of Morocco. He mentioned that the initiative fosters meaningful connections through shared exploration, with each stage of the tour providing intimate glimpses into the Kingdom’s ancient heritage, culture, and traditions. He noted that the participation of Qataris from various professions, such as doctors, engineers, and pilots, reflects their belief that these shared experiences forge stronger links between peoples, communities, and nations.
Mustapha Al Tajer, a participant in the event, expressed that the tour offers an ideal opportunity to experience firsthand the richness and diversity of Morocco’s heritage and to admire the splendor of its natural sites. Meanwhile, Adil Kharbouch, a Moroccan cycling champion in 2003, praised the initiative and the organization of the event in Morocco, a country renowned for the practice of cycling.
The seven-day tour will guide c
yclists through emblematic destinations including Marrakech, Tangier, and villages in the Atlas Mountains.